I made a reservation for lunch and arrived a little early, but I was guided in without any waiting time. My elderly father was taken care of in various ways, and we enjoyed a delicious soba set and pudding. It was my first visit after a two and a half hour drive from northern Kanto. The restaurant has a large thatched roof and a charming interior, and I was very satisfied with the delicious soba. This time, I was able to park right next to the road, so I entered the restaurant from the road side, following the flow of other customers. As I was leaving, I peeked into the back of the parking lot and saw a magnificent entrance. Once inside, it felt like time had stopped in that wonderful space. My family who accompanied me did not see that part, so I feel regretful thinking about it now.
A hot spring inn where tranquility and tradition harmonize
Located in the Togura Kamiyamada Onsen area of Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture, "Shigenoya" is a hidden hot spring inn that exudes serenity and elegance. The lobby features beautiful koi swimming in a luxurious, modern Japanese space. Guests can enjoy heartfelt cuisine, allowing them to indulge in a lavish experience.
The small entrance that you pass through a wooden door is impressive, and once you enter, it lifts your spirits. Inside, the counter is central and spacious, and there is a tatami room in the back where you can relax. From the seats, you can see the hot spring town, which gives you a bit of a travel vibe. The seafood rice bowls and sashimi are all fresh, and the katsudon and tempura are also delicious. The horse sashimi, stewed horse meat, and sea cucumber with grated daikon are all flavorful and pair well with alcohol. You can choose between set meals and individual dishes, and you can adjust the amount of rice; the atmosphere is gentle and comfortable.
Refresh with heartwarming countryside cuisine and hot springs
Taki no Yu Inn is a hot spring ryokan where you can enjoy creative countryside dishes. The cuisine features exquisite dishes that creatively reinterpret traditional Japanese flavors with Italian and French influences. Additionally, they offer fresh and flavorful sashimi, as well as enticing dishes with rich bagna càuda sauce. The hot springs are available for use, boasting excellent water quality. With warm hospitality and comprehensive services, this inn provides a refreshing experience for both body and mind.
A inn to enjoy flowing hot springs and carefully crafted cuisine
Kameya Honten, a long-established inn in Togura Kamiyamada Onsen, offers 100% natural flowing hot springs. You will surely be impressed by the pleasant texture of the outdoor bath in your room. The meals feature carefully selected ingredients from Shinshu, presenting beautiful dishes that will surprise visitors with their exquisite flavors. It's a place to spend a luxurious and happy time.
A hot spring hotel with beautiful views and a rich buffet
Riverside Ueda-kan is a hotel that offers stunning views along the Chikuma River, featuring a renowned outdoor hot spring and a diverse buffet menu. From fresh sashimi and sushi to traditional Japanese regional dishes and desserts, there is something for everyone, from children to adults. With unlimited alcoholic beverages available, adults can fully relax as well. This accommodation is perfect for those looking to spend a leisurely time in a quiet and serene atmosphere.
A long-established shop serving hand-made udon with a taste of Shinshu tradition
Korona is a renowned establishment boasting 110 years of history, specializing in traditional hand-made udon from Shinshu. Particularly, the 'oshibori udon' is praised for its delightful balance of the spiciness from the nezumi daikon and the house-made miso, earning rave reviews from many. The thick, chewy noodles showcase the high quality of hand-made craftsmanship. For first-time visitors, it's a nostalgic udon shop where you can enjoy a fresh and unique taste.
A long-established inn to enjoy Shinshu's gourmet food and hot springs
Located by the Chikuma River in Shinshu, Hotel Seifuen is a historic inn. Guests are captivated by the dinner that is richly infused with the flavors of Shinshu, as well as the high-quality hot springs recommended by hydrotherapy specialists. You can enjoy a luxurious time refreshing both body and mind in the spacious outdoor and indoor baths while savoring the region's gourmet cuisine.
Sanmaron is a renowned Western restaurant located along National Route 18 in Nagano Prefecture. Their unique curry, which you won't find anywhere else, comes highly recommended and captivates with its rich flavors. The menu also features a variety of dishes such as steak, mixed grill, and beef stew, all of which provide a satisfying portion. You can fully enjoy the essence of Western cuisine alongside heartwarming dishes.
In a calm Chinese restaurant located in a hot spring town hotel, there are spacious private rooms where you can relax. The freshly made dishes are fragrant, and you can also enjoy the flavors of Sichuan cuisine. The spicy squid sauce is infused with ginger, making it a great pairing with drinks. The rich shark fin stew has a gentle umami flavor, and the texture of the fibers is pleasant. The sesame-rich dan dan noodles have a nutty accent and provide satisfaction until the last bite. Overall, the portions are substantial, and I am happy to enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine in a hot spring area.
A renowned restaurant for local handmade soba and regional cuisine
Handmade Soba Fukutaro is a heartwarming establishment where you can enjoy handmade soba and regional dishes made with local ingredients. In particular, the 'oshiori udon' featuring spicy daikon radish captivates visitors with its unique spiciness and the exquisite combination of Shinshu miso. The interior has a warm atmosphere, allowing you to savor exquisite dishes that let you experience the local culture alongside the rich flavors of soba.
Sasaya Hotel is a historic establishment surrounded by the rich nature of Nagano, offering guests a comfortable and healing experience. You can enjoy exquisite dishes made with fresh ingredients from Shinshu, accompanied by heartfelt and attentive service. The spacious outdoor bath provides the perfect place to relax while taking in the beautiful views of the satoyama and gardens. You can expect a heartwarming stay that delivers a level of satisfaction that makes you wish to return.
A renowned restaurant in a hot spring area where you can enjoy gyoza and grilled meat
Horan is a beloved establishment near Togura Kamiyamada Onsen, famous for its gyoza and grilled meat. The gyoza features a chewy skin that highlights the sweetness of onions, paired with lean meat that captivates the taste buds of visitors. It can be enjoyed with draft beer, making it perfect for families with growing juniors. You can indulge in a heartwarming meal that fully satisfies your cravings for gyoza and grilled meat.
Juman-goku is a place where you can enjoy handmade rustic udon in a traditional atmosphere. The curry udon, in particular, offers a perfect combination of curry flavor and thick udon that brings warmth. One of the charms is the joy of choosing from a rich menu. You can be sure to leave this beloved spot for locals feeling satisfied both in body and spirit.
An izakaya featuring fresh seafood and beautiful presentation
Mana is an izakaya where the owner's passion for fish is evident, offering a rich menu that highlights seasonal ingredients. Known for its fresh sashimi and unique zosui, this restaurant is praised for its visually stunning and beautifully presented dishes. Mana provides a heartwarming dining experience that delights both the eyes and the palate.
Cucina del Porco is an Italian restaurant located near a hot spring town. The interior has a log cabin atmosphere, providing a calm environment where dishes are prepared using fresh local ingredients, all served deliciously. The homemade bacon dishes and freshly baked dolce are particularly exquisite.
Wako Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant that has been cherished by local patrons for many years. Upon your first visit, you'll be greeted by a friendly atmosphere and the warm smile of the kind owner. Not only can you enjoy a variety of dishes such as nigiri sushi, chawanmushi, and sashimi platters, but the warm hospitality is also a highlight. In particular, you can savor delicious sushi to your heart's content while enjoying conversations with the head chef.
Located on Ginza Street in Kamiyamada Onsen, Shimaya is renowned for its sweet simmered ayu and wakasagi made from natural ingredients. The sweet simmered fish, prepared with soy sauce and coarse sugar, can be enjoyed deliciously from head to tail. Inside the restaurant, you can sample the simmered products and enjoy their rich, sweet-and-savory flavors.
A harmonious blend of authentic Italian cuisine and bar
Ristorante e Bar Da・Qui is a restaurant where authentic Italian dishes and bar culture come together, crafted by a chef with training experience in Italy. Everything from bread to desserts is homemade, with the 'yuzu cheesecake' being a standout recommendation. The restaurant makes full use of local seasonal ingredients, resulting in delicate and authentic flavors.